This book, The Elements of Investing, is VERY basic. If you are completely in the dark about personal finance, it might be a good place to start. It lists basic tenets of personal finance. Spend less than you earn (so that you will have extra money to invest). Invest in low cost index funds (buy and hold, don’t spend extra money on fees).

This book is great for beginners. The basic rules they present (and then present again and again) are important first starts to investing. I was hoping the book would have more specific investment advice; I know that low cost index funds are great, but what if you don’t have those options in a 401(k)? What else can I do?